A family-oriented Pride event in Reading, Massachusetts was interrupted today when a bomb threat targeted the local public library. Officials confirmed that the Reading Public Library received a disturbing message warning of an explosive device set to detonate during a bustling Saturday storytime session.
Upon receipt of the threat, library staff acted swiftly to evacuate all personnel and patrons. The Reading Public Safety and Law Enforcement sprang into action and, after a meticulous evaluation of the premises, they gave the green light for the library to resume operations at 1:00 p.m. No one was hurt, in the unnerving incident.
In response to the day's events, Patrick T. Egan, Chair of the Reading Public Library Board of Trustees released a statement. "Public libraries are sanctuaries for our entire community," he asserted. Egan condemned the threat as repellent and cowardly, stating, "Threats that seek to ostracize and marginalize members of our community are un-American."
Egan praised the agility, and dedication of the police and fire departments in securing the library. He reaffirmed the institution's commitment to serving all community members, including the LGBTQIA+ population. "We will not be silenced nor will we curtail our mission to serve all," Egan stated, expressing gratitude for the support of Police Chief Clark, Fire Chief Burns, and their respective teams.
Egan's appeal for solidarity was clear as he solicited the community's support against such violent threats, "I ask you to stand with our Library, staff, and town against violent threats to our institutions, neighbors, and families." Details of the event and Egan's full statement were posted on the Library's Facebook page.
